Child activity systems

ABSTRACT

A safe and fun standing and walking-training and play apparatus and method, ideal for infants, new toddlers, and toddlers, is disclosed. The apparatus is lightweight, sturdy, and simple to assemble and disassemble by hand without tools. Further, the system comprises a configuration that is adjustable in height. The system additionally includes attachable play features such as basketball hoops, full and end activity/play tables, material for making a tent, fort-like (or ‘crawl-through’) structure, and soccer (or hockey) goals. Also included is an infant harness attachment and other suspended play items.

RELATED APPLICATION DATA

This patent application contains subject matter claiming benefit of the priority date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/891,693, filed on Feb. 26, 2007, accordingly, the entire contents of this provisional patent application is hereby expressly incorporated by reference. Additionally, this patent application contains subject matter related to co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 11/278,657, entitled INFANT ACTIVITY SYSTEMS, the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention pertains generally to systems for standing, walking training and imaginative play for infants, new toddlers, and toddlers. More specifically, the invention relates generally to systems for young children's exercise and entertainment while also providing opportunities for standing and walking training for infants and new toddlers.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Frequently, children learn to walk by what has been called “furniture surfing” (e.g., infants who are just starting to stand, holding onto sofas, coffee tables, and other pieces of furniture for support as they navigate their way around a living room). At least in part, this may be due to the lack of an alternative method. Obviously, “furniture surfing” represents a risk to the infant, e.g., in the event the infant or new toddler should fall against a hard or sharp corner or edge of a piece of furniture or other item.

A primary alternative to “furniture surfing” can be referred to as “parent surfing,” that is, the active participation of the adult in holding the infant's hands while the infant attempts to stand or walk. This method is often short-lived due to adult fatigue.

Presently, there are few readily available alternatives which provide the functional combination of standing and walking training, exercise and entertainment for infants, new toddlers, and toddlers. Generally, the currently readily available alternatives fail to provide at least one of the desired functions and often have significant safety limitations, even with parental supervision.

Heretofore, other solutions have tended to be heavy, expensive, complicated, difficult to set up, difficult to manufacture, and costly to manufacture. In addition, safety-related features have been limited.

Therefore, a need exists for a system which is safe, inexpensive and easily manufactured, and provides infant walking training in combination with other functions.

In light of the above, it is an object of the present invention to provide a Child Activity System that is ideal for entertainment and development for young children. Further, it is an object of the present invention to provide a system for promoting infant exercise and entertainment. It is still further an object of the present invention to provide such a system that is adaptable to young children as they learn and grow older. It is yet still further an object of the present invention to provide a Child Activity System that is easily assembled, disassembled, transported and stowed. Still further, it is an object of the present invention to provide a Child Activity System that is lightweight and comparatively cost effective.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention specifically addresses and alleviates the above mentioned deficiencies associated with the prior art. More particularly, in a first aspect the present invention comprises a Child Activity System 200 comprising: an upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar 115; a plurality of lower vertical support tubes 150; a plurality of upper vertical support tubes 140 each configured to telescopically fit inside of corresponding lower vertical support tubes, together the plurality of upper and lower support tubes supporting the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar; and a plurality of lateral support segments 125 each connected to at least one of the lower vertical support tubes, wherein the upper and lower vertical support tubes together define a height h1, h2, h3 for the system that is suitable for a child to grasp the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar and assist the child in standing and walking.

The Child Activity System is further characterized in that the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar comprises: an upper side bar 110; an upper end bar 120; and a three-way elbow 190 connecting the upper side bar, the upper end bar and the upper vertical support tube.

The Child Activity System is yet further characterized wherein the upper side bar is connected to the three-way elbow with a releasable spring-button fastener 111 and wherein the three-way elbow includes a hole 610 to receive the spring button fastener.

The Child Activity System is still further characterized wherein the upper end bar and upper vertical support tube are permanently bonded to the three-way elbow with a permanent adhesive and wherein the upper end bar is connected to the three-way elbow with a releasable spring button fastener 111 and wherein the three-way elbow comprises a plurality of holes to receive the spring button fastener.

The Child Activity System is additionally characterized in that the lateral support segment further comprises: two lower end bars 160; a lower side bar 112; and two 90-degree elbows 180 connecting the lower side bar to each of the two lower end bars, the lower side bar configured with spring-button fasteners at distal and proximal ends, the two 90-degree elbows configured with holes to receive the spring-button fasteners, and the two lower end bars permanently bonded to the two 90-degree elbows using a permanent adhesive.

The Child Activity System is still further characterized wherein the upper vertical support tube comprises a spring-button fastener 141 and wherein the lower vertical support tube comprises a plurality of holes 151 to selectably and releasably receive the spring-button fastener, the plurality of holes corresponding to an adjustable system height, h1, h2, or h3.

The Child Activity System is additionally characterized wherein the plurality of lateral support segments are connected to the at least one of the lower vertical support tubes with a 90-degree elbow. Moreover, the child activity system of the present invention further comprises upper and lower side bars 110, 112; upper and lower end bars 120, 160, wherein the upper and lower side bars are modular and interchangeable components, and where in the upper and lower end bars are the same size. Importantly, the invention is characterized in that the upper polygonal graspable bar is configured with a circumference, the circumference selected to be suitable to be grasped by a hand of a child (infant, new toddler, or toddler).

The invention is further described wherein the upper polygonal graspable bar is connected to and supported by the upper vertical support tube via a three-way elbow 190, the three-way elbow configured to receive the upper vertical support tube by way of a spacer 710.

The invention further includes an embodiment wherein a miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net 911 are connected to the upper polygonal graspable bar. Or optionally, a small soccer (or hockey) goals 931 are connected to the lower vertical support tubes. Or optionally, a plurality of end play/activity tables 961 are attached to the upper polygonal graspable bar. Or optionally, a large play/activity table 971 is attached to the upper polygonal graspable bar. Or alternatively, the invention includes material 951 to cover the system thereby forming a tent or “crawl-through” structure 950.

The invention further includes an embodiment wherein the system is placed on its side 910 and the same miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net 911 is connected thereto. Also, the invention includes an embodiment wherein an infant harness 964 is flexibly attached to the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar (should additional support be required for an infant learning to use the present invention); and a series of suspended toy accessories 962 that are attached to the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar.

In a second aspect, the invention is characterized as a Child Activity System 200 able to be easily converted to more than one useful play arrangement comprising: two upper horizontal bars 110; two end support segments 300 connected by the two upper horizontal bars therebetween; small soccer (or hockey) goal(s) 931 connected to one of the end support segments, or alternatively, a miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net 911 connected to one of the end support segments, the system thereby providing ability to be converted to more than one useful play arrangement.

In this aspect, the invention is further characterized wherein the alternatives of the small soccer (or hockey) goal and the miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net further include the alternatives of an end activity/play table 961 connected to an end support segment, or alternatively a full activity/play table 971 connected to both of the upper horizontal bars, or an infant harness 964 connected to both of the upper horizontal bars. Moreover, as to the alternative of the miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net play arrangement, the invention optionally includes the additional choice of the basketball hoop facing outwardly, or inwardly 920, or optionally arranging the system to stand upright on its end 910.

In a third aspect, the invention is a Child Activity System 200 comprising: two upper horizontal bars 110 having a circumference graspable by a child (infant, new toddler, or toddler); and two end support segments 300 connected by the two upper horizontal bars there between, the end support segments adjustable in height h1, h2 h3 to thereby adjust the height of the system. Further, each of the end support segments comprises: an upper end bar 120; two upper vertical support tubes 140 connected at opposing ends of the upper end bar; two lower vertical support tubes 150 configured to adjustably receive corresponding upper vertical support tubes; and two lower end bars 160 connected to corresponding lower support tubes in the same plane as the upper end bar. Further this invention in this aspect comprises an infant harness 964 flexibly attached to both of the upper horizontal bars.

While the apparatus and method has or will be described for the sake of grammatical fluidity with functional explanations, it is to be expressly understood that the claims, unless expressly formulated under 35 USC 112, are not to be construed as necessarily limited in any way by the construction of “means” or “steps” limitations, but are to be accorded the full scope of the meaning and equivalents of the definition provided by the claims under the judicial doctrine of equivalents, and in the case where the claims are expressly formulated under 35 USC 112 are to be accorded full statutory equivalents under 35 USC 112.

The invention can be better visualized by turning now to the following drawings wherein like elements are expressed using like reference characters.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of this invention, as well as the invention itself, both as to its structure and its operation, will be best understood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description, in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts, and in which:

FIG. 1 is an isometric illustration of a child activity system of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a top plan view of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2B further illustrates a front plan view of the present invention;

FIG. 2C is an end view showing three different height adjustments of the present invention;

FIG. 3A is a perspective illustration of the present invention showing components before assembly.

FIG. 3B is a perspective illustration showing components of an end portion of the present invention, the manner in which the upper and lower portions are connected, and the telescopic method behind the height adjustments;

FIG. 4A illustrates upper side bars of the present invention;

FIGS. 4B and 4C illustrate upper and lower vertical tubes that make up the end portion of the present invention;

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate end and elevational views of a 90-degree elbow fitting of the present invention;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are perspective and end views of a 3-way elbow fitting of the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates components of upper portion of the support assembly illustrated in

FIGS. 3A and 313;

FIGS. 8A through 8D illustrate components of the present invention arranged for packing, shipment and stowage;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are isometric and top plan views of an upright orientation of an embodiment of the present invention with a miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net;

FIGS. 10A and 10B are isometric and top plan views of a normal orientation of an embodiment of the present invention with a miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net configured within the upper horizontal bars;

FIG. 11A is an isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention configured with small soccer (or hockey) goals at each end; further, this embodiment shows the present invention resting on a soft, comfortable play mat with field markings suitable for soccer (or hockey);

FIG. 11B is an isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention with the comfortable play mat shown with football field markings;

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention configured as large soccer (or hockey) goal;

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention configured with a ‘play tent’ (or ‘crawl-through’) covering;

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention configured with end activity/play tables;

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention configured with a full activity/play table;

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention configured with an infant harness (should additional support be required for an infant learning to use the present invention) and a suspended toy accessory; and

FIG. 17 is a perspective illustration of additional accessory play items of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Initially referring to FIG. 1, a Child Activity System 200 embodiment of the present invention is shown. System 200 can be characterized as a light-weight, strong, and stable structure made out of plastic pipes, e.g., ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), or other child-safe plastic. System 200 further seeks to provide a safe and entertaining environment for an infant/new toddler/toddler 102 to learn and practice standing and walking skills in addition to aiding growth of the child by providing an entertaining and challenging environment for the continued play and development of toddlers and children.

Strength of system 200 is provided by advanced materials of plastic pipes and couplings that are extruded or molded from ABS or other child-safe plastic. As an example, pipe diameters could be in the range of ½″ to 1″ or more, if appropriate, and formed in a way comparable to Schedule 40 PVC. The diameter chosen will yield a bar circumference that is able to be grasped by the hand of a small child. System 200 stability is provided by its base that is comprised of two lateral support segments 125. The segments 125 form a base that is three (3) times as wide as the upper end bars 120. Further, segments 125 are more specifically comprised of two lower end bars 160 and a lower horizontal bar 112 connected via 90-degree elbow couplings 180.

The graspable area for infant/new toddler (child) 102 support and walking training is initially defined by an upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar 115, that, in a preferred embodiment, is rectangular in shape and is made up of two upper end bars 120 and two upper horizontal bars 110. The upper bars 110 are joined by several 3-way bar couplings 190, which may also be made from ABS or similar material. Graspable bar 115 provides child 102 with standing support, either by riding at the underarms or simply via child 102 grasping of the bar 115. The bar 115 also provides a sitting or crawling child with an upper bar to grasp while pulling himself/herself up to a standing position. As explained further herein, bar 115 is also important for the attachment of certain play and entertainment accessories.

FIGS. 2A and 2B additionally illustrate top and front views of this embodiment 200 of the present invention. Heights h1, h2, h3 of upper bars 110 and 120 are easily adjustable making system 200 ideal for small infants and new toddlers up through children who may learn to stand and walk at an older age. As shown in FIG. 2C, upper vertical support tube 140 is configured with a smaller diameter than that of lower support tube 150 and fits inside thereof telescopically. Vertical support tube 140 includes a spring button fastener 141 (FIG. 4C) wherein height h1, h2, h3 is easily adjustable by selecting corresponding hole 151 (FIG. 4B) for attachment.

In a preferred embodiment as shown in FIG. 3A, the invention 200 can be characterized as comprising two end support segments 300 along with two upper horizontal end bars 110 and two lower horizontal end bars 112. Importantly, the upper and lower horizontal end bar segments 110, 112 are modular interchangeable components wherein arrangement and shipment of the unit is more specifically disclosed by FIGS. 8A through 8D.

As shown in FIG. 3B, the two end support segments 300 are comprised of upper 310 and lower 320 end segments that receive one another telescopically as described herein. In a preferred embodiment, upper 310 and lower 320 segments are comprised of components that are permanently bonded to provide ease of assembly, disassembly and shipment.

FIGS. 3C and 3D illustrate an alternative for grouping of components and characterization of the present invention. As shown, system 200 comprises two vertical end supports 350 that are interchangeable and usable on either side. The vertical end supports 350 comprise an upper end segment 310 with two lower support tubes 150 telescopically received; the lower support tubes 150 each having a 90-degree elbow 180 permanently bonded thereto. Also included in this embodiment are two horizontal base supports 351 that are useable on either side of system 200. Each horizontal base support 351 comprises a lower horizontal bar 112 having two lower end bars connected at distal and proximal ends with 90-degree elbows 180 permanently bonded. Lastly included are two interchangeable upper horizontal bars 110. All other connections are made via spring button fasteners 111.

As shown in FIG. 4A, upper 110 and lower 112 horizontal bars are attached to their 90-degree elbow couplings 180, and three-way elbow couplings 190, with spring button fasteners 111 located on proximal and distal ends. As previously stated, no tools are required for assembly and disassembly to aid overall functionality of the system 200.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate closer views of 90-degree elbow couplings having a hole 510 to receive spring button fasteners as preferred by the particular application and embodiment. FIGS. 6A and 6B similarly illustrate three-way elbow couplings 190 configured with a hole 610 to receive a spring button fasteners as preferred by the particular application and embodiment.

FIG. 7 more specifically illustrates upper end segment 310 previously shown in FIG. 3B. As stated herein, upper vertical support tube 140 has a reduced diameter to be received by lower vertical support tube 150. Spacer 710 is combined to upper tube 140 so that a secure union is achieved with three-way elbow 190. In this way and in a preferred embodiment, three-way elbow 190 couplings in the system 200 are modular and interchangeable components.

As stated herein, FIGS. 8A through 8D illustrate a preferred arrangement for shipment of system 200. End segments 300 can be arranged to directly oppose one another while upper 110 and lower 112 horizontal bars have room for stowage there between. The resulting shipping arrangement is dense and compact that improves economy and profitability of the system 200.

FIGS. 9A and 9 b begin to illustrate the versatility of system 200 to be configured with play equipment to further enhance functionality of the present invention as a learning and entertainment apparatus for young children. Embodiment 910 includes a miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net 911 attached to the structure 200 (FIG. 1) supported on its end. Rectangular clasp 912 attaches hoop 911 to an upper end bar 120, as illustrated.

Similarly FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate a basketball hoop embodiment 920 wherein the miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net 911 is configured inside of the structure 200 (FIG. 1). Rectangular clasp 912 is provided again to releasably attach to an upper end bar 120. The orientation of hoop 911 could also be reversed (not shown) so that the hoop 911 faces outside the structure 200.

Now turning to FIG. 11A, yet further versatility is demonstrated by a first soccer (or hockey) goal embodiment 930 having goals 931 attached to end segments 300 using a ring fastener 932. Also provided in the embodiment is a mat 933 a that shows typical goal box areas and center lines as to be representative of a full size soccer field (or hockey rink). Referring to FIG. 11B, mat 933 b, similar to a yoga mat, also includes football yardage markings. As a preferred example of the embodiment 935, mat 933 b lies on the reverse side of mat 933 a, as illustrated.

FIG. 12 yet further illustrates another soccer (or hockey) embodiment 940 of the present invention wherein goal 941 material is provided to fit around the outside of system 200 (FIG. 1) to faun a goal 941. Importantly, the goal support structure would comprise system 200 (referring back to FIG. 1) without one of the horizontal base supports 351 (FIG. 3C). Ring fasteners 932 are provided for goal 941 similar to the first soccer (or hockey) goal embodiment.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of the invention to provide a ‘play tent’ (or ‘crawl-through’) structure for children's entertainment. Those more familiar with child care and development should instantly appreciate this particular embodiment 950 as children frequently enjoy building and hiding in forts or similar structures. Tent material 951 is provided around system 200 (FIG. 1) as shown and secured with ring fasteners 932.

FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate end activity/play table 961 and full activity/play table 971, embodiments 960 and 970 of the present invention similarly secured with ring fasteners 932. FIG. 16 illustrates system 200 configured with an infant harness 964 and secured to system 200 with flexible bands 963. Infant harness 964 is provided should additional support be required for an infant learning to use the present invention. Also shown is an example of an infant toy accessory 962 that could include any of a variety of playful toys suspended from upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar 115.

FIG. 17 illustrates play accessories optionally included to the present invention. Provided are: toy baseball bat 981, toy hockey stick 982, soft small basketball 983, soft soccer ball 984, soft football 985, soft baseball 986, and soft hockey puck 987.

While the particular Child Activity System herein shown and disclosed in detail is fully capable of obtaining the objects and providing the advantages herein before stated, it is to be understood that it is merely illustrative of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention and that no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown other than as described in the appended claims. 

1. A Child Activity System comprising: an upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar; a plurality of lower vertical support tubes; a plurality of upper vertical support tubes each configured to telescopically fit inside of corresponding lower vertical support tubes, together the plurality of upper and lower support tubes supporting the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar; and a plurality of lateral support segments each connected to at least one of the lower vertical support tubes, wherein the upper and lower vertical support tubes together define a height for the system that is suitable for a child to grasp the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar and assist the child in learning to stand and walk.
 2. The Child Activity System of claim 1, wherein the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar comprises: an upper side bar; an upper end bar; and a three-way elbow connecting the upper side bar, the upper end bar and the upper vertical support tube.
 3. The Child Activity System of claim 2, wherein the upper side bar, the upper end bar and upper vertical support tube are connected to the three-way elbow with a plurality of releasable spring-button fasteners and wherein the three-way elbow comprises a plurality of holes to receive the plurality of spring button fasteners.
 4. The Child Activity System of claim 2, wherein the upper end bar and upper vertical support tube are permanently bonded to the three-way elbow with a permanent adhesive and wherein the upper end bar is connected to the three-way elbow with a releasable spring button fastener and wherein the three-way elbow comprises a plurality of holes to receive the spring button fastener.
 5. The Child Activity System of claim 1, the lateral support segment comprising: two lower end bars; a lower side bar; and two 90-degree elbows connecting the lower side bar to each of the two lower end bars, the lower side bar configured with spring-button fasteners a distal and proximal ends, the two 90-degree elbows configured with holes to receive the spring-button fasteners, and the two lower end bars permanently bonded to the two 90-degree elbows using a permanent adhesive.
 6. The Child Activity System of claim 1, wherein the upper vertical support tube comprises a spring-button fastener and wherein the lower vertical support tube comprises a plurality of holes to selectably and releasably receive the spring-button fastener, the plurality of holes corresponding to an adjustable system height, h1, h2, or h3.
 7. The Child Activity System of claim 1, wherein the plurality of lateral support segments are connected to the at least one of the lower vertical support tubes with a 90-degree elbow.
 8. The Child Activity System of claim 1, further comprising: upper and lower side bars; upper and lower end bars, wherein the upper and lower side bars are modular and interchangeable components, and where in the upper and lower end bars are the same size.
 9. The Child Activity System of claim 1, wherein the upper polygonal graspable bar is configured with a circumference, the circumference selected to be suitable to be grasped by a hand of a child.
 10. The Child Activity System of claim 1, wherein the upper polygonal graspable bar is connected to and supported by the upper vertical support tube via a three-way elbow, the three-way elbow configured to receive the upper vertical support tube by way of a spacer.
 11. The Child Activity System of claim 1, further comprising a miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net connected to the upper polygonal graspable bar.
 12. The Child Activity System of claim 1, further comprising a small soccer goal connected to the lower vertical support tubes.
 13. The Child Activity System of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of end play tables attached to the upper polygonal graspable bar.
 14. The Child Activity System of claim 1, further comprising a full play table attached to the upper polygonal graspable bar.
 15. The Child Activity System of claim 1, further comprising material to cover the system thereby forming a play tent structure.
 16. The Child Activity System of claim 1, wherein the system is placed on its side and further comprising a miniature basketball backboard, hoop and connected thereto.
 17. The Child Activity System of claim 1, further comprising: an infant harness flexibly attached to the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar; and a suspended toy accessory attached to the upper polygonal peripheral graspable bar.
 18. A Child Activity System that can be easily converted to more than one useful play arrangements comprising: two upper horizontal bars; two end support segments connected by the two upper horizontal bars therebetween; a small soccer goal connected to one of the end support segments, or alternatively, a miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net connected to one of the end support segments, the system thereby providing ability to be converted to more than one useful play arrangement.
 19. The Child Activity System of claim 18, wherein the alternatives of the miniature soccer goal and the miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net further include the alternatives of an end play table connected to an end support segment, or alternatively a full activity table connected the upper polygonal graspable bar, or an infant harness connected to the upper polygonal graspable bar, or a suspended toy accessory attached to one of the upper horizontal bars.
 20. The Child Activity System of claim 18 wherein the alternative of the miniature basketball backboard, hoop and net play arrangement, optionally includes the additional choice of the basketball hoop facing outwardly, or inwardly, or optionally arranging the system to stand upright on its end.
 21. A Child Activity System comprising: two upper horizontal bars having a circumference graspable by a child; and two end support segments connected by the two upper horizontal bars there between, the end support segments adjustable in height to thereby adjust the height of the system.
 22. The Child Activity System of claim 21, each of the end support segments comprising: an upper end bar; two upper vertical support tubes connected at opposing ends of the upper end bar; two lower vertical support tubes configured to adjustably receive corresponding upper vertical support tubes; and two lower end bars connected to corresponding lower support tubes in the same plane as the upper end bar.
 23. The Child Activity System of claim 21, further comprising an infant harness flexibly attached to at least one of the upper horizontal bars. 